Callahan had intended to stay neutral in the race between Reynolds and Councilman Robert Donchez but he decided to endorse Reynolds "when it became clear that Reynolds was the only candidate who put forth a positive vision for the future of Bethlehem," he said in a statement.

“Today, I must speak out in support of bold, new leadership to keep the city's economic engine driving -- the kind of leadership Willie Reynolds will provide," Callahan said.

Donchez issued a statement that called Callahan an “ultimate hypocrite” because he’s currently using negative campaigning in his county executive race and did previously when he ran for mayor. Donchez also said he has been forthcoming about Bethlehem’s financial problems, which he said is in direct conflict with Callahan’s position, which “projects a sense of false security.”